I really like this. It’s unassuming and conversational, and in just a few economical paragraphs I get a poignant understanding (at least partially) of the state of affairs in this world. Well done!!

You are playing with the words in my challenge description. :) The only ‘beach’ we have around here is a sandy shore of a lake. Heh.
Enjoy your last moments on Earth, even if you burn up or freeze. It will be over quickly enough.
You light-hearted madness is amusing, even though I can’t shake the feeling I am being made fun of for not having been to a proper beach, much like this desert oasis isn’t a proper beach, nor the lakes nearest to me. :)

your* light-hearted madness.

Of course I’m playing with the words. Did you notice the ‘dark and stormy night’ in there, too?

It’s just how I roll. :D

This gave me goosebumps by the time I got to the end. Nice work!

I did. It was a big clue. :)

I like it! We see the mindset of those people who refuse to evacuate in a hurricane, but with a sci-fi twist.